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If you’re looking at midsize trucks, odds are you’ve come across the 2025 Honda Ridgeline. And for good reason. It’s that quiet overachiever in a segment full of brawny, loud contenders — the one that doesn’t need to shout but somehow always gets the job done.
It’s part truck, part SUV, part clever tool chest — and it’s been flying just under the radar since its late 2024 release. Let’s get into what makes the Ridgeline still one of the most compelling options out there for 2025.
Highlights for Busy Readers
- Pricing Range: Approximately $40,500 to $46,750
- Engine Specs: 3.5L V6, 280 horsepower
- Fuel Economy: Around 18-24 mpg, depending on trim
- Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 pounds
- Key Feature: In-Bed Trunk with 7.3 cu. ft. of storage
- Safety Suite: Standard advanced driver-assistance features
- Competitors: Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado
Why It’s a Standout
- Carlike Ride: Comfort often takes precedence over brute strength, so it appeals to families and individuals who rarely push a truck to its mechanical extremes.
- Innovation: The dual-action tailgate and secure trunk elevate convenience in day-to-day use.
- Reliability: Honda’s reputation for durable engineering sets minds at ease. Owners frequently report minimal mechanical drama, an important factor for those not interested in constant shop visits.
2025 Honda Ridgeline Release Timing and Availability
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Honda followed a familiar pattern by sending the new Ridgeline to dealerships in the fall season. That timing lined up with the brand’s usual strategy of unveiling upcoming models before the new calendar year.
People curious about the latest Ridgeline found early details through automotive press releases around September and October of 2024, confirming what insiders had suspected: a continuation of the same generation with only minor tweaks.
Ready for Purchase
It’s now March 2025, and according to Motortrend, most Honda dealerships have shipments in stock. Pricing details appear to vary slightly based on location, but general figures remain in the low- to high-$40,000 range.
Some potential buyers may find a slight markup due to local market conditions, while others might spot a sweet deal through promotional offers.
2025 Honda Ridgeline Pricing & Trims
The 2025 Ridgeline offers four primary trims, available for the following prices (according to the official Honda website):
- Sport – $40,150 Starting MSRP
- RTL – $42,980 Starting MSRP
- TrailSport – $45,380 Starting MSRP
- Black Edition – $46,750 Starting MSRP
A few minor packages and regional price differences can push figures a bit beyond the sticker amount, but most people land within those ranges.
Sport trim suits those who want the Ridgeline experience without too many extras. Meanwhile, the Black Edition appeals to enthusiasts seeking premium audio, unique interior finishes, and an intimidating exterior vibe.
Value Assessment
Many observers praise Ridgeline’s comfort factor and everyday usability, which can justify the investment. The unibody construction provides a smoother ride than some competing midsize trucks.
Granted, the total capacity for towing and off-roading is lower than certain body-on-frame pickups, but drivers looking for that typical “easy to handle” feeling often regard the Ridgeline as a balanced choice.
Performance and Capability
The 2025 Honda Ridgeline seamlessly blends robust performance with everyday practicality:
Engine and Drivetrain
A 3.5-liter V6 sits beneath the hood, churning out 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and a standard all-wheel-drive system.
That pairing keeps acceleration consistent and supplies the pickup with enough power to handle most hauling tasks. It may not win a drag race against sports cars, but there’s a decent boost for merging on highways or climbing moderate grades.
Towing and Payload
Ridgeline owners can tow up to 5,000 pounds, which fits the needs of weekend anglers pulling a small boat or families with modest travel trailers.
Payload capacity hovers between 1,500 and 1,600 pounds, depending on trim level. Those numbers might underwhelm drivers who crave a heavy-duty workhorse.
Then again, plenty of drivers never exceed those limits, so it’s a fair compromise for everyday comfort.
Fuel Economy
According to LODI Honda, mileage estimates land around 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on highways. Some versions, particularly the TrailSport, shift slightly to around 18 mpg city and 23 mpg highway.
Most owners report that real-world results align fairly well with the official ratings. For anyone commuting daily, the Ridgeline’s efficiency compares respectably within its category, and certain rival trucks struggle to match its balanced numbers.
2025 Honda Ridgeline Key Features
Unibody Construction
Honda’s approach sets the Ridgeline apart from contenders like the Toyota Tacoma or Chevrolet Colorado. The frame shares commonalities with crossovers and SUVs from the Honda lineup, giving the Ridgeline a more car-like ride quality.
Some people call it the “crossover of the pickup world,” and that remark isn’t far from the truth. It tracks nicely on highways and handles corners without the body roll typical in heavier, ladder-frame trucks.
Dual-Action Tailgate
Few pickups can lay claim to a tailgate that both folds down and swings open like a door. Honda’s design helps with loading bulky items and offers easy access to the bed.
That same tailgate helps owners reach the In-Bed Trunk, a lockable compartment offering 7.3 cubic feet of storage. It’s ideal for items that need protection from the elements—no more rummaging inside the cabin or sacrificing passenger space.
In-Bed Trunk
A hidden compartment in the bed? Indeed. It’s a handy spot for groceries, sports gear, tools, and anything else worth securing.
Tailgates that swing aside and a trunk within the truck bed combine to create a level of convenience that wins over practical drivers.
Especially when compared to older designs from other brands, that trunk remains a notable selling point.
Interior and Infotainment
As we noticed on Honda’s official website, most trims include a touchscreen infotainment interface, Bluetooth connectivity, and smartphone integration.
Black Edition adds a 540-watt premium audio system, while Sport, RTL, and TrailSport trims stick with a 215-watt configuration.
Navigation comes standard on higher trims, and some owners enjoy the user-friendly layout that suits daily commuting as well as longer excursions.
Safety and Driver-Assistance
Core Honda SENSING® Suite
According to Piazza Honda of Pottstown, Ridgeline’s advanced safety tech stands out in the midsize truck class. Standard features include:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System
- Lane Keeping Assist System
- Road Departure Mitigation System
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic Monitor
That lineup aids in daily driving, especially during traffic jams or long highway journeys. Abundant sensors track surrounding vehicles, reducing the chance of sudden collisions.
With an Anti-Lock Braking System, Vehicle Stability Assist, and multiple airbags, Honda’s emphasis on occupant protection shines through.
Crash Test Ratings
Several reputable automotive sources rate the Ridgeline at the top of its category.
A five-star overall rating from the NHTSA is nothing to sneeze at. IIHS results frequently show strong crashworthiness, further reinforcing the idea that families and solo drivers can feel secure behind the wheel.
Tailored Options
Sport Trim
A suitable entry point for those who don’t need luxury. Expect cloth seats, a basic yet functional infotainment system, and standard AWD.
That version still includes the dual-action tailgate and In-Bed Trunk, so no critical features are missing.
RTL Trim
Leather-trimmed seats, power-adjustable front seats, and a few other refinements characterize this mid-tier option.
A modest bump in price accompanies a more upscale atmosphere inside the cabin. It remains a popular choice for drivers who want a balanced blend of comfort and affordability.
TrailSport Trim
Geared toward owners planning occasional off-road ventures. An off-road-tuned suspension and all-terrain tires (245/60R18 105T) come standard. Intelligent Traction Management offers settings for mud or sand.
While this configuration can’t outperform a hardcore rock-crawling truck, it handles enough rough terrain to satisfy average adventurers seeking a scenic campsite or backwoods trail.
Black Edition
Topping the range is a version drenched in sleek black accents, from the wheels to the interior stitching.
A 540-watt audio system and leather-trimmed seats create a cabin environment that feels upscale. People who enjoy a bold, stealthy aesthetic see plenty of appeal in this trim.
Practical Dimensions of 2025 Honda Ridgeline
- Length: 210.2 inches
- Width: 78.6 inches
- Height: 70.8 inches
- Wheelbase: 125.2 inches
- Ground Clearance: 7.64 inches
The bed measures 64.0 inches when the tailgate is raised, extending to 83.0 inches when lowered. Cargo volume hits about 33.9 cubic feet, which ranks well for a midsize unit.
Experts frequently mention that the Ridgeline’s cabin is quite spacious for a truck in this segment, reducing the cramped feeling common in some models.
Real-World Comfort and Ride Quality
Drivers often compare the Ridgeline’s smooth ride to a large crossover such as Passport model, rather than a typical pickup. Bumps and potholes feel less jarring, making the daily commute or a highway road trip pleasant.
Some might bemoan the reduced “truckish” sensation, but many owners welcome the relatively quiet and cushioned seats. Critics who prefer a more rugged stance complain about the unibody platform not being robust enough for extreme trails.
Then again, few Ridgeline owners plan to compete with specialized off-roaders. A balanced approach remains the objective here.
Potential Drawbacks
- Familiar Design: The current generation started in 2017. Updates over the years added fresh trims, but a full overhaul has yet to materialize. Some drivers might seek a more modern look or new powertrain technology.
- Moderate Towing Capacity: Plenty of owners never tow more than 5,000 pounds, but those who require higher limits might seek alternatives.
- Limited Off-Road Credentials: The platform supports mild off-road adventures, though it can’t match a purpose-built truck on technical trails.
Final Words
Honda’s Ridgeline has built a loyal fan base, and the 2025 model continues that tradition. Shoppers looking for a midsize pickup that remains friendly on pavement, offers plenty of safety tech, and features a handy trunk in the bed will likely appreciate the overall package.
The release might not be revolutionary, but it strengthens Honda’s standing in a segment that values daily versatility just as much as rugged spirit. Anyone who prioritizes consistent comfort and peace of mind would do well to take a closer look.
A quick test drive often reveals enough to sway skeptics. A final note: watch for potential deals at local dealerships, since some may discount the Sport trim or add no-cost accessories.
Ridgeline fans have reasons to celebrate, and that includes anyone eager to haul lighter loads or load up the trunk for a holiday trip.
References
- motortrend.com – 2025 Honda Ridgeline
- automobiles.honda.com – Build & Price: 2025 Ridgeline
- automobiles.honda.com – 2025 Ridgeline Features & Specs
- lodihonda.com – The 2025 Honda Ridgeline presents by Lodi Honda
- piazzahondapottstown.com – Advanced Safety Features in the 2025 Honda Ridgeline
